Pharma
Star Anise Oil
Illicium verum Oil · Tamiflu Precursor Source
चक्र फूल तेल · Illicium verum
- Origin:
- Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland
- Flavour:
- Deep, intense licorice with warming spicy depth
80–90% AnetholeTamiflu PrecursorExportPharmaceutical
About Star Anise Oil
Star anise essential oil contains 80–90% trans-anethole — one of the highest concentrations in any essential oil. Chemically similar to aniseed oil but from a different plant family. Critically, it is the primary source of shikimic acid used in manufacturing oseltamivir (Tamiflu) — causing global star anise shortages during the 2005 bird flu outbreak.
Health Benefits
- 80–90% Trans-anethole — antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory proven
- Shikimic acid — critical pharmaceutical precursor for Tamiflu antiviral synthesis
- Carminative and digestive stimulant for relief of bloating
- Traditional use in Ayurveda for digestive and respiratory support
Culinary & Industrial Uses
- Flavouring for anise-character spirits and licorice-flavoured products
- Confectionery and licorice-style candy production globally
- Pharmaceutical shikimic acid extraction for Tamiflu (oseltamivir) production
- Chinese five-spice powder oil flavouring equivalent
Processing & Grades
Steam distillation of whole star anise fruits from Northeast India. Trans-anethole 80–90% by GC-MS. Shikimic acid content certified for pharmaceutical applications. Northeast India origin certificate provided.
